1. DRDO successfully tests MPATGM against moving target

The third-generation Fire-and-Forget Man Portable Anti-Tank Guided Missile (MPATGM), with top-attack capability, was successfully flight-tested against a moving target at the KK Ranges in Ahilya Nagar, Maharashtra, on January 11. The test was conducted by DRDO’s Defence Research and Development Laboratory, Hyderabad.

The indigenously developed MPATGM incorporates state-of-the-art technologies, including an Imaging Infrared (IIR) homing seeker, all-electric control actuation system, fire control system, tandem warhead, propulsion system, and a high-performance sighting system. These have been developed by DRDO’s sister laboratories—Research Centre Imarat, Hyderabad; Terminal Ballistics Research Laboratory, Chandigarh; High Energy Materials Research Laboratory, Pune; and Instruments Research & Development Establishment, Dehradun.

2. Mumbai hosts fifth edition of Tri-Services Veterans Day Parade

Mumbai hosted the fifth edition of the Tri-Services Veterans Day Parade at Marine Drive on January 11, ahead of the annual Veterans Day on January 14. The event was flagged off by Vice Admiral Krishna Swaminathan, AVSM, VSM, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Western Naval Command, who graced the occasion as the Chief Guest.

Senior officers from the Army, Navy, and Air Force, along with other dignitaries, were present at the event.

3. India and France in negotiations for 114 Rafale jets

India and France are negotiating the acquisition of 114 Rafale fighter jets for the Indian Air Force, according to a report by The Economic Times. India currently operates 36 Rafale aircraft in its fleet, as the IAF continues to grapple with declining squadron strength.

The Rafale jets are manufactured by French aerospace major Dassault Aviation. The Mirage-2000 fighter jet, also of French origin, remains in service with the IAF. During Operation Sindoor, Rafale aircraft were used to strike terror targets using SCALP cruise missiles.

4. German Chancellor arrives in India

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz arrived in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, on January 12 for a two-day visit to India, concluding on January 13. This marks his first official visit to the country.

India and Germany could sign an $8 billion deal for six Project P-75I submarines. Germany is also likely to offer the A400M airlifter for the Indian Air Force’s Medium Transport Aircraft (MTA) requirement.

5. Donald Trump considering military action against Iran

 US President Donald Trump has claimed that Iran has reached out and proposed negotiations, even as he considers “very strong” military action against the regime over its crackdown on protesters. According to a report by The Guardian, the crackdown has reportedly killed hundreds.

Asked by reporters aboard Air Force One on Sunday whether Iran had crossed his previously stated red line, Trump said, “They’re starting to, it looks like. We’re looking at it very seriously. The military is looking at it, and we’re looking at some very strong options. We’ll make a determination.”

Chakra Desk

Chakra News is a specialised digital media platform committed to in-depth coverage of India’s defence, national security, geopolitics, and critical technologies.